Lung cancer diagnostic, prognostic and predictive markers

Recently, results from the International Early Lung Cancer Action Project (I-ELCAP) and the US National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) have shown that screening with computed tomography (CT) allows lung tumors to be detected at an earlier stage and reduces lung cancer mortality. In this context, the incorporation of molecular markers would help improve the cost effectiveness of screening programs, thereby facilitating implementation at population level. Unfortunately, to date there are no clinically validated molecular markers for use in the early detection, diagnosis or monitoring of lung cancer patients.
The researchers in the lung cancer diagnostic, prognostic and predictive markers area aim to identify and validate molecular markers that complement imaging studies in the clinical management of lung cancer patients. We work to identify and validate markers in order to determine the risk or diagnosis of undetermined nodules in the context of lung cancer screening. We also seek to develop and validate prognostic profiles for patients in the initial stages and predictive markers for the response to oncology treatment in metastatic lung cancer.
We have years of experience studying the molecular changes associated with lung cancer in close collaboration with the Lung Cancer Area at the Clínica Universidad de Navarra. These studies have allowed us to identify diagnostic, prognostic and response-prediction markers that we are currently validating in a series of clinically relevant samples (including cohorts of patients and high-risk healthy individuals who are enrolled in CT screening programs).

"Our studies have allowed us to identify biomarkers for early detection, diagnosis, prognosis and outcome prediction of the treatment, which may be of use in the clinical management of lung cancer patients", Dr. Rubén Pío.